Richard Argyle Harris

In Loving Memory of Richard Harris

Richard Harris, 86, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to his family. Born on December 21, 1939, Richard lived a life defined not only by his remarkable intellect, but by the warmth and generosity with which he shared it.

Richard is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Arlene Harris, whose love and companionship were the foundation of a beautiful life together. He also leaves behind his two daughters, Jane and Julie, and his cherished grandsons, Keith and Luke, each of whom brought him immeasurable pride and joy. He is also survived by his brothers, John (Mary Ann) and Denis (Lauren).

A lifelong scholar, Richard graduated from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Physics before earning a master’s degree in mathematics from the University of Wisconsin. His curiosity never faded. He was a true lifelong learner who delighted in understanding the world around him. Whether he was exploring complex mathematical concepts, reading about history, or discovering the life of a favorite composer, Richard approached every subject with enthusiasm and wonder. He seemed to know a little about everything, and those fortunate enough to spend time with him often left having learned something new.

Music was one of Richard's greatest passions. An accomplished pianist and gifted singer, he found joy in sharing music wherever he could. He faithfully sang in his church choir and rarely passed a piano without sitting down to play. Some of his greatest happiness came from introducing his daughters to the beauty of music, encouraging both Jane and Julie to study piano throughout their childhood. Through music, he shared not only melodies but a lifelong appreciation for creativity, discipline, and joy.

Above all else, Richard was a devoted husband and father. Everything he did reflected his deep love for his family. He worked tirelessly to provide for them, support them, and create opportunities for them to grow. His quiet strength, steady presence, and unconditional love formed the foundation upon which his family built their lives. Richard embraced life's adventures with the gentle encouragement of Arlene, who delighted in planning outings and bringing people together. Once among friends, his quiet demeanor would give way to an engaging storyteller with an incredible gift for painting vivid pictures through his words. His stories, humor, and thoughtful observations left lasting impressions on everyone fortunate enough to hear them.

Richard possessed a rare kindness that touched everyone he met. He was the kind of man who would gladly give you the shirt off his back if he believed it would ease your burden. His compassion was genuine, his generosity selfless, and his heart immeasurably large. He made people feel valued, heard, and cared for simply by being himself.

While Richard's family grieves the loss of a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, they also celebrate a life beautifully lived. His love of learning, his music, his gentle spirit, and his steadfast devotion to those he loved will continue to echo through the lives he touched.

Richard's legacy is not measured by degrees earned or accomplishments achieved, but by the countless moments of love, laughter, wisdom, and kindness he shared. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Please join us for a Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 7730 Bradley Boulevard, Bethesda, MD 20817.

The service will begin in the chapel, followed by a prayer service at the columbarium. We will then gather in the reception area to share food, fellowship, and memories as we celebrate his life together.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Richard Harris's memory to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF) at https://donate.themmrf.org/home to support research toward a cure for multiple myeloma.